The growing prominence of equestrian sports

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If you're an equestrian sports enthusiast, keen horse rider or just game for a laugh then it is likely that you followed the BBC's latest bid to ridicule minor celebrities, Only Fools on Horses. This was a new twist of the reality show culture, amalgamating show jumping, raising money for charity and oh yes celebrities.

But, no matter what your opinion of such reality TV shows, Only Fools on Horses did do a phenomenal job of raising funds for Sport Relief and it has also helped to raise the profile of equestrian sports, such as show jumping among, a far wider audience.

About Sport Relief

Sport Relief is a fundraising initiative introduced by Comic Relief in association with the BBC. By combining sport with entertainment and getting some of TV's most familiar faces to participate, Sport Relief aims to raise money to provide aid to vulnerable children in the UK and those that are living in some of the world's poorest countries.

Since its launch in 2002, Sport Relief has raised �30 million and by going all out in 2006 fundraisers wish to pole vault over this amount and make substantial progress in tackling issues of poverty and disadvantage among children.

About Only Fools on Horses

Only Fools on Horses was the showpiece event for Sports Relief 2006. 12 celebrities from the world of sport, television presenting, radio, and acting who had no, or a very limited, experience of horse riding climbed into the saddle to learn how to become premium show jumpers.

Each celebrity was allocated an expert show jumping horse and received a crash course on how to show jump. Mastering the art of such a specialised equestrian activity can take years of intensive discipline but training was condensed into six grueling weeks for these competitors.

Starting by jumping for six hours a day over much smaller fences, the celebs worked their way up to the full size hurdles. But, as well as the aching muscles, bruise-ridden falls and long hours, some celebrities did find their training to be a great source of cardiovascular exercise and others developed some excellent relationships with their horses.

Once the celebs were prepared for the challenge they took to the course in order to demonstrate their show jumping skills over a period of nine nights. The public were asked to vote by telephone or text message to keep their favourite show jumpers in, the proceeds of which went to Sport Relief. Each night, the celebrity with the least votes was hoofed off, making the competition harder and show more exhilarating as it continued.

The grande finale saw Blue Peter presenter Matt Barker, Radio One DJ Sara Cox and Pop Idol judge Nickie Chapman all battling it out for the crowning glory. However, GMTV's Jenni Falconer steamed home to victory on horse J-Lo and was awarded the title �Only Fools on Horses - Showjumper of the Year'.

The future of show jumping

Show jumping was once an equestrian sport very much restricted to the elite. Yet, by combining show jumping with popular culture it is becoming a lot more accessible to the masses.

The popularity of Only Fools on Horses has increased a general interest in equestrian activities. There has not only been an influx of enquiries about horse riding lessons but also the ticket sales for horse shows such as the London Horse Show at Olympia have gone through the roof.

However, there has been less coverage of show jumping on the television in recent years. While prestigious flat race meets at Cheltenham, Doncaster and Glorious Goodwood and large jump racing events such as the Grand National are still dedicated plenty of airtime, show jumping events seem to have been brushed aside. For example, only highlights of equestrian events held at Hickstead are aired instead of the full show.

But, programmes like Only Fools on Horses that have stirred a big interest in the BBC's audience bring hope that TV scheduling may see a change for the better in the future.

The finest collection of equestrian clothing and equipment

Whether you have a passion for show jumping or leisure riding, the Dogwood collection has the finest range of equestrian wear and horse riding products available.

Our collection offers the finest Bates leather saddles and outstanding Wintec synthetic saddles with a wide range of premium horse tack including bridles, bits and girths.

No matter what your riding proficiency or age, Dogwood has jodhpurs, jackets, riding hats and boots that provide ultimate comfort and style.

If you require any further details on any of our horse riding products please call our team of equestrian experts on 0845 30 10 365.

For more information about Only Fools on Horses see the following news story:

BBC series said to responsible for increased show jumping popularity

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